What else can I do with ground beef? If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pack of ground beef in your fridge, unsure of what to cook beyond the usual spaghetti, you’re not alone. Ground beef is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly ingredients, perfect for quick and delicious meals. Whether you’re craving something hearty, light, or even a little spicy, there are countless ways to transform this staple into something exciting.
From tacos and casseroles to soups and stir-fries, what else can I do with ground beef? The answer is—so much more than you might think! This article will take you beyond the basics and introduce creative, flavorful recipes that will make ground beef your go-to ingredient all year round. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just looking for fresh ideas, these dishes are easy, delicious, and sure to impress. Let’s get started!
1. Classic and Unique Ground Beef Recipes
Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many kitchens because it’s easy to cook and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a hearty dish for the whole family, these classic and unique ground beef recipes will add variety to your menu.
1.1 Tacos and Burritos
One of the easiest and most flavorful ways to use ground beef is in tacos and burritos. Simply brown the beef in a skillet, season it with taco seasoning, and you have the perfect filling for:
- Hard or soft tacos – Serve with lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
- Burritos – Wrap the beef in a tortilla with rice, beans, and avocado.
- Quesadillas or enchiladas – Add cheese and grill for a crispy finish.
Pro Tip: Mix in diced onions, bell peppers, or black beans to boost flavor and nutrition.
1.2 Homemade Burgers
Skip the store-bought patties and make juicy homemade burgers with fresh ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Variations to Try:
- Cheese-Stuffed Burgers – Place a cube of cheese inside the patty for a melty surprise.
- BBQ Bacon Burgers – Top with crispy bacon and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
- Mushroom Swiss Burgers – Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese add a gourmet touch.
Grilling Tip: Keep the patties slightly thicker in the center to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
Learn about different beef cuts suitable for burgers in 10 Best Tips for Perfect Baby Back Ribs – Recipes & Cooking Methods. Understanding rib cuts can enhance your knowledge of meat selection for juicy burgers.
1.3 Meatballs (Beyond Spaghetti!)
Meatballs aren’t just for spaghetti. Try these flavor-packed meatball recipes:
- Swedish Meatballs – Served with a creamy gravy over mashed potatoes.
- Asian Glazed Meatballs – Tossed in teriyaki or sweet chili sauce.
- Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) – Made with herbs and served with tzatziki sauce.
Serving Idea: Pair meatballs with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pita bread for a well-balanced meal.
1.4 Casseroles and One-Pan Meals
If you’re looking for a filling and easy dinner, casseroles and one-pan meals are a great way to use ground beef.
- Shepherd’s Pie – A comforting dish topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
- Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole – A simple, one-pot meal perfect for busy nights.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with seasoned ground beef and rice.
Pro Tip: Adding a layer of melted cheese on top of casseroles makes them even more irresistible.
1.5 Ground Beef Soups and Stews
Ground beef adds a rich and hearty flavor to soups and stews. Try these warming options:
- Beef and Vegetable Soup – A simple, healthy meal loaded with veggies.
- Chili – A classic dish with beans, tomatoes, and bold spices.
- Taco Soup – A fun twist on taco flavors in a comforting soup.
Slow Cooker Tip: Brown the ground beef first before adding it to soups for extra depth of flavor.
Enhance your soup recipes with insights from Are Soup Bones the Same as Marrow Bones? 5 Important Differences. Understanding the use of bones can enrich the flavor of your broths.
2. What to Make with Ground Beef Other Than Spaghetti?
Ground beef is often used in spaghetti, but there are countless other delicious and creative ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient. If you’re looking for alternatives, here are some exciting dishes that go beyond the classic pasta sauce.
2.1 Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb and fresh alternative, try using ground beef in lettuce wraps. Cook the beef with garlic, soy sauce, and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist, or season it with taco spices for a Mexican-style wrap. Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves and top with shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of sauce.
2.2 Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American favorite that takes just minutes to prepare. Cook ground beef with onions, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a little brown sugar for a sweet and savory filling. Serve it on toasted hamburger buns for a simple and satisfying meal.
2.3 Beef Stir-Fry
Ground beef can be a great substitute for sliced meat in a stir-fry. Brown the beef and add a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir in a sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and flavorful dinner.
2.4 Empanadas and Meat Pies
Empanadas and meat pies are a great way to turn ground beef into a portable and delicious meal. Cook the beef with onions, garlic, and spices, then wrap it in dough and bake or fry until golden brown. These can be customized with cheese, vegetables, or even a touch of sweetness with raisins.
2.5 Breakfast Scramble
Ground beef isn’t just for lunch and dinner—it also works well in breakfast dishes. Brown the beef and mix it with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced potatoes for a hearty breakfast scramble. You can also use it as a filling for breakfast burritos or pair it with hash browns for a protein-packed meal.
2.6 Stuffed Zucchini or Mushrooms
For a vegetable-based dish, try stuffing zucchini or mushrooms with a seasoned ground beef mixture. Combine the beef with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then bake until tender. This is a great way to add more vegetables to your meals while enjoying a rich and flavorful dish.
2.7 Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are another unique way to use ground beef. Mix the beef with rice, garlic, and spices, then wrap it in cabbage leaves and simmer in tomato sauce. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal with a rich, savory taste.
2.8 Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic dish that turns ground beef into a hearty, oven-baked meal. Mix the beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then shape it into a loaf and bake until golden brown. Glaze with ketchup or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
2.9 Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious way to enjoy ground beef. Hollow out the peppers and fill them with a mixture of beef, rice, tomatoes, and seasonings. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked.
2.10 Taco Salad
For a lighter option, make a taco salad using seasoned ground beef. Serve it over a bed of lettuce with tomatoes, cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips. Top with salsa or a zesty dressing for a fresh and flavorful meal.
These dishes prove that ground beef is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many different ways beyond spaghetti. Whether you want something light, hearty, or packed with bold flavors, there are plenty of creative options to explore.
3. How to Use Leftover Ground Beef?
Leftover ground beef can be a lifesaver when you need a quick and easy meal. Instead of letting it go to waste, repurpose it into new dishes that are just as delicious as the original meal. Here are some creative and practical ways to use leftover ground beef.
3.1 Make a Next-Day Sandwich or Wrap
Turn your leftover ground beef into a delicious sandwich or wrap. Simply reheat the beef and add it to a toasted bun or tortilla with your favorite toppings.
- For a cheeseburger-style sandwich, layer the beef with cheese, lettuce, and pickles.
- For a Tex-Mex wrap, roll the beef in a tortilla with salsa, avocado, and shredded cheese.
- For a Mediterranean-style pita, add the beef to a warm pita with tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
3.2 Add It to a Salad
Leftover ground beef can make a salad more filling and flavorful. Use it to top a bowl of fresh greens and mix in ingredients that complement the seasoning of the beef.
- For a taco salad, use ground beef with lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, cheese, and tortilla chips.
- For a Greek-style salad, pair the beef with cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives.
- For a protein-packed bowl, add beef to quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables.
3.3 Stuff It Into Vegetables
Vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers can be easily stuffed with leftover ground beef.
- Slice zucchini in half, scoop out the center, and fill it with beef, cheese, and seasonings before baking.
- Remove the stems from mushrooms, stuff them with beef and cheese, and bake for a bite-sized appetizer.
- Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with beef, rice, and tomato sauce for a hearty meal.
3.4 Mix It Into Eggs or Omelets
Give your breakfast a protein boost by adding ground beef to eggs.
- Scramble eggs with beef, onions, and cheese for a hearty breakfast scramble.
- Use ground beef as a filling for an omelet with mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Wrap beef and eggs in a tortilla for a quick breakfast burrito.
3.5 Make a Quick Soup or Chili
Leftover ground beef works great in soups and chili, adding rich flavor and protein.
- Add it to a pot of broth with vegetables and pasta for a quick beef soup.
- Stir it into canned tomatoes, beans, and spices for an instant chili.
- Use it in a taco soup with corn, black beans, and tortilla strips.
3.6 Use It as a Pizza Topping
Transform your leftover ground beef into a tasty pizza topping. Sprinkle it over a pizza crust with cheese, onions, and peppers for a homemade ground beef pizza. Try different variations like a taco pizza with salsa and jalapeños or a cheeseburger pizza with pickles and mustard.
3.7 Create a Stir-Fry
For a quick and healthy dinner, toss your leftover ground beef into a stir-fry. Sauté it with bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, then add soy sauce and garlic for an easy Asian-inspired dish. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
3.8 Make a Casserole or Pasta Bake
Leftover ground beef can be turned into a cheesy and comforting casserole.
- Mix it with cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and mozzarella for a beefy pasta bake.
- Layer it with potatoes and cheese for a ground beef potato casserole.
- Combine it with rice and vegetables for a one-pan beef and rice casserole.
3.9 Turn It Into Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a simple and delicious way to repurpose ground beef. Just mix the beef with tomato sauce, a bit of brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, then serve it on toasted buns. This is an easy meal that takes just minutes to prepare.
3.10 Freeze It for Future Meals
If you’re not ready to use your leftover ground beef right away, freeze it for later. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will stay fresh for up to three months. When you need a quick meal, simply thaw and add it to any of the recipes mentioned above.
Using leftover ground beef creatively helps reduce food waste and makes meal prep easier. With so many options available, you’ll never have to worry about leftovers going to waste again.
4. What Is Ground Beef Best For?
Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, making it a staple for many home cooks. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from quick and easy meals to hearty and flavorful entrees. Understanding what ground beef is best for can help you make the most of this ingredient and elevate your cooking.
4.1 Quick and Easy Meals
Ground beef is perfect for meals that come together quickly because it cooks fast and absorbs flavors well. Some of the best quick meals that use ground beef include:
- Tacos and burritos
- Sloppy Joes
- Stir-fries
- Lettuce wraps
- Breakfast scrambles
These dishes require minimal prep and cook time, making them great for busy weeknights.
4.2 Flavorful and Hearty Dishes
Ground beef works well in rich, hearty meals where it can soak up seasonings and spices. Some of the best options include:
- Chili – A thick and flavorful dish made with beans, tomatoes, and spices.
- Meatloaf – A comforting classic that’s baked to perfection.
- Shepherd’s pie – A rich casserole topped with mashed potatoes.
- Stuffed bell peppers – A balanced meal with rice, beef, and vegetables.
- Lasagna – Layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce for a delicious baked dish.
These meals highlight the deep, savory flavors that ground beef can bring to a dish.
4.3 Budget-Friendly Cooking
Ground beef is a cost-effective protein, making it ideal for affordable meals. You can stretch your grocery budget by using ground beef in:
- Casseroles that combine beef with rice, pasta, or potatoes.
- Soups and stews where a small amount of beef adds richness.
- Stir-fries with lots of vegetables for a balanced dish.
- Meatballs, which can be made in bulk and frozen for later.
Buying ground beef in bulk and freezing portions can also help save money and reduce food waste.
4.4 Customizable and Adaptable Recipes
Ground beef can be used in recipes from many different cuisines, including:
- Mexican – Tacos, enchiladas, and burritos.
- Italian – Meatballs, lasagna, and stuffed shells.
- Asian – Beef stir-fries, lettuce wraps, and dumplings.
- Mediterranean – Greek meatballs (keftedes) and stuffed grape leaves.
- American – Burgers, sloppy joes, and casseroles.
This adaptability makes ground beef a great option for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.
4.5 High-Protein and Nutrient-Rich Meals
Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B12. It’s best used in meals that need a high-protein boost, such as:
- Breakfast scrambles with eggs and cheese.
- Protein-packed salads with lean ground beef.
- Low-carb meals like zucchini boats or lettuce wraps.
- Post-workout meals that combine beef with quinoa or sweet potatoes.
Choosing lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) can help keep meals healthier while still providing essential nutrients.
4.6 Great for Meal Prepping and Freezing
Ground beef is one of the best ingredients for meal prep because it can be cooked in advance and used in multiple dishes throughout the week. Some of the best ways to meal prep with ground beef include:
- Cooking a large batch of seasoned beef to use in different meals.
- Freezing cooked ground beef in portions for quick meals.
- Preparing meatballs or burger patties in advance and freezing them.
- Making casseroles or lasagna ahead of time for easy baking later.
By planning ahead, you can save time in the kitchen while always having a delicious meal ready to go.
Ground beef is best for quick meals, hearty comfort foods, budget-friendly cooking, and high-protein dishes. With its ability to take on different flavors and textures, it’s a must-have ingredient that can be used in countless ways.
5. FAQs
Q1: What Can You Make Out of Ground Beef?
Ground beef is one of the most versatile ingredients, allowing you to create a wide variety of meals. Some popular dishes include:
Tacos and burritos – Quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired meals.
Burgers – Juicy, homemade patties with endless topping options.
Meatballs – Perfect for pasta, subs, or served with sauces.
Casseroles – Hearty dishes like shepherd’s pie and beef and rice bakes.
Soups and chili – Warming and comforting options for any season.
Stuffed vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms filled with seasoned beef.
Ground beef can also be used in stir-fries, salads, pasta dishes, and breakfast scrambles, making it a go-to ingredient for easy meals.
Q2: What to Make with Ground Beef Other Than Spaghetti?
If you’re looking for alternatives to spaghetti with meat sauce, try these creative dishes:
Lettuce wraps – A fresh and healthy low-carb option.
Sloppy Joes – Sweet and savory beef served on a bun.
Beef stir-fry – Cooked with vegetables and soy sauce for a quick meal.
Meat pies or empanadas – Flaky pastry filled with seasoned beef.
Breakfast scrambles – Mixed with eggs, cheese, and potatoes.
Stuffed bell peppers – A well-balanced meal with beef, rice, and vegetables.
Taco salad – A fresh take on tacos served over crisp lettuce.
These options allow you to enjoy ground beef in new and exciting ways.
Q3: How to Use Leftover Ground Beef?
Leftover ground beef can be repurposed into different meals to reduce waste and save time. Some great ways to use leftovers include:
Wraps and sandwiches – Add beef to tortillas, pitas, or buns.
Salads – Toss beef with greens, vegetables, and dressings.
Soups and chili – Stir into a pot of broth and vegetables.
Egg dishes – Mix into scrambled eggs or omelets.
Pizza topping – Use ground beef as a flavorful pizza ingredient.
Casseroles and pasta bakes – Combine with pasta, rice, or potatoes for an easy meal.
You can also freeze leftover ground beef for future use in quick dishes.
Q4: What Is Ground Beef Best For?
Ground beef is best for recipes that require:
Quick cooking – Meals like tacos, stir-fries, and scrambles can be made in minutes.
Hearty flavors – It works well in chili, meatloaf, and casseroles.
Budget-friendly meals – Ground beef stretches well in soups, rice dishes, and pasta.
Versatile seasonings – It absorbs spices and sauces, making it perfect for different cuisines.
Meal prepping – It can be cooked in advance and used in various dishes throughout the week.
Ground beef is an essential ingredient for easy, affordable, and flavorful meals that suit a wide range of cooking styles.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef is one of the most adaptable and convenient ingredients in the kitchen. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a hearty meal for the whole family, there are countless ways to use ground beef beyond just spaghetti.
From tacos and casseroles to soups and stuffed vegetables, ground beef can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. If you have leftovers, repurposing them into new meals saves time and reduces waste, making meal prep even easier.
Next time you find yourself wondering, “What else can I do with ground beef?”, try stepping outside the usual recipes and experimenting with new flavors and cuisines. With so many possibilities, ground beef will never feel boring again.
Share Your Experience
What’s your favorite way to cook with ground beef? Have you tried any of these recipes? Let us know in the comments below!